Tibetan Spaniels: What's Good About 'Em, What's Bad About 'Em

With his independent nature and quick agility, the Tibetan Spaniel has been compared to a cat.

Lively and playful, yet also calm and laid-back, this good-natured dog is easy to live with. He fits into an apartment or an estate with equal contentment. All he asks for in the way of exercise are daily walks and occasional romps in a safe enclosed area.

Tibetan Spaniels are family-oriented: they love to play games with their own people, are sensitive to moods and feelings, and do not like to be left alone for long periods of time.

They are agile, sure-footed climbers (can often be found perched on the windowsill or the high back of a chair, looking out the window) and clever problem-solvers who often rely on their dexterity to get what they want. For example, they will use their paws to pry open a cabinet door.

Most Tibetan Spaniels are conservative with strangers and don't like being swooped down on by people they don't know. Early socialization is important to develop a confident, outgoing temperament. Most are friendly with other animals.

Though stubborn and self-reliant, the Tibetan Spaniel is also sensitive; obedience training should utilize food and praise.

If you want a dog who...

Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training.

• You can avoid some negative traits by choosing an ADULT dog from an animal shelter or rescue group. With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult Tibetan Spaniels have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics.
• If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy. Unfortunately, you usually can't tell whether a puppy has inherited temperament or health problems until he grows up.
• Finally, you can avoid some negative traits by training your Tibetan Spaniel to respect you and by following the 11-step care program in my book, 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy.

More traits and characteristics of the Tibetan Spaniel

If I was considering a Tibetan Spaniel, I would be most concerned about...

1. Grooming and shedding. To keep their lovely coat free of mats and tangles, Tibetan Spaniels require regular brushing and combing. And be aware, they shed a good deal.
2. Stubbornness. Tibetan Spaniels have an independent mind of their own. They can be stubborn and manipulative. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say.

   In other words, you must teach your Tibetan Spaniel to respect you. A dog who respects you will do what you say and will stop what he's doing when you tell him "No." Read more about Tibetan Spaniel Training.

3. Finding one. The Tibetan Spaniel is not common in the United States, so you should expect to go on a waiting list.